Tour Log: Mastodon

Rockers Mastodon recently held a sought-after headlining spot at this year's Bonnaroo festival, where Mix caught up with front-of-house engineer/tour manager Lewis Lovely. If you didn't make it to the festival, check out our online photo gallery available at mixonline.com/photos/bonnaroo2008; you can also check out a 30-minute Webcast of Mastodon's performance at www.attblueroom.com/music.

How much gear are you carrying on this tour?

We are carrying backline and a mic package. The boys are in the middle of recording their new record with Brendan O'Brien and are really concentrating on that right now.

Do you have a specific mixing style for the band?

I try not to make any one thing the predominant ingredient in a mix. You always run across engineers who think kick drum and vocals are all you need to hear. I want to comfortably hear any of the little nuances Mastodon has written in their songs.

Mastodon Performing Live
Photos: Dave Vann

What is the most difficult portion of your job for this tour?

As tour manager and front-of-house engineer, I have the wonderful job of taking care of their daily lives. They are a true trouble-rousing rock 'n' roll band, so press is always fun to schedule.